THE Great Yorkshire Show expects to play host to some of the finest equestrian classes in the country next month.

A total of 1,620 entries have been received across the 28 sections, with records in the hunter riding and skewbald and piebald ridden classes.

Chief executive Nigel Pulling said: "This year numbers are slightly down - 1,620 compared with 1,863 at our last show in 2000 - but given the traumas the countryside has suffered over the last 12 months, it's hardly surprising. As always, visitors to the show will be able to see some of the finest equestrian classes in the country."

One of the highlights will be the breeders challenge supreme in-hand championship. Judge Mrs A Cooke of Etton, near Beverley, will have the difficult job of choosing the supreme light horse or pony.

The winner will go forward to the Horse of the Year Show in Birmingham and will receive the FW Furness trophy.

In total there is £29,268 available in prize money across the horse, pony and donkey classes, with a further £23,550 for show jumping.

There are plenty of other attractions, including the Shetland Pony Grand National, four in hand coaches and the show jumping.